What is Social Prescribing? Let local stories inspire you to get out and get social

Social Prescribing day is here, and we want to tell you about how much it can benefit your health and wellbeing.

Social Prescribing is ‘connecting people to activities, groups and support that improve health and wellbeing.’ Lots of things that can impact our health can’t always be treated be doctors or medication alone, and this where Social Prescribing can help.  

We’ve linked in with local people across Gwent who benefit from community activities and getting out and about- read their stories below.  

Mark’s story 

“I have been involved with the Dicky Tickers Caerphilly since its start." said Mark. "I found that the group has given me encouragement to continue to engage socially, we meet weekly for coffee and chat with some visitors coming to give educational talks which have mainly a health theme been and have been helpful in explaining medications and even some of the medical problems we can face. 

"Our meetings are weekly but alternate weeks we go for walks with Huw, the Nature Wellbeing Co-Ordinator from the health board, and we have Ian from Gwent wildlife who gives a lot of informative chats about aspects of the surrounding area historically and mainly the various plants and wildlife. The walks I find relaxing and for the time we are out in the countryside or parks is a welcome break the stresses and complications of living with a lifelong illness.”

Janet’s story 

Janet, from Blaenau Gwent, had her life turned upside down when she became disabled, which also saw her mental health plummet. Her husband, who had to be with her at all times due to her acute anxiety, heard about the Arts & Crafts group co-run by members of our Blaenau Gwent Integrated Wellbeing Networks team and decided it could be a good opportunity for Janet to boost her mental health.

Within a week of attending the group, Janet felt like she'd got her life back and so had her husband. Janet quit smoking, now has money to go shopping with her daughter and has "fallen in love with her husband all over again".  

Want to know more about Social Prescribing and activities on in your area? Head to our Integrated Wellbeing Network webpage and find out what’s on: 

Blaenau Gwent: https://bginthistogether.co.uk/  

Caerphilly: https://www.cwtsh.wales/ Home | Nature Wellbeing 

Monmouthshire: https://www.monmouthshire.gov.uk/money-matters/ 

Newport: https://www.yournewport.co.uk/ 

Torfaen: https://connecttorfaen.org.uk/